K181 points

[oilwell1415 563]

I'm sure this will have a simple solution that I just can't think of since I haven't worked on anything with points in 20 years.  I'm trying to get my K181 running and it has no spark.  I put a new coil on it because it didn't have one on it when I got it.  If I ground and unground the coil with a jumper wire I get spark.  When the engine is turned by hand, the negative wire on the coil never indicates that it is grounded.  The wire tests good with a DVOM, but there is no continuity across the points when they are closed.  It tests good to the wire side contact and good from the block side contact to the block, but when the contacts are touching there is no continuity between them.  I cleaned them and there still isn't any continuity.  Yes, they are actually closed.  I'm tempted to throw a new set at it, but these do not show any signs that they should be bad.  What pitifully simple thing am I missing?

[gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,479]

There must be something on the point contacts that is preventing electrical contact when closed. Ideally a rub with a point file will make them work. Use a nail file if you have to and follow up by dragging a clean strip of paper through the closed contacts until it comes out clean.

 

It is also possible the contacts are not closing. Try reducing the point gap .002". 

Have heard of the points push rod wearing but don't know how that affects the function.

 

Garry

[seven 202]

Strange the points are not closing but sometimes it is tuff to see put a feeler gauge between points and check with meter again?

[953 nut 59,968]

A new set of "KOHLER" points is packaged with a small cleaning cloth and instructions to use electrical parts cleaner to remove the protective coating. If you don't have electronic parts cleaner you can use rubbing alcohol and a piece of cloth. 

[Pullstart 66,723]

I recently had an issue with what I thought were clean points on Mrs. P’s Senior.  A replacement set did wonders!